Seven Examples of Fasting in the Bible-- Although the Bible doesn’t give a direct command on this issue, examples of fasting appear in both the Old and the New Testaments. One of the most telling passages in which fasting is mentioned is Matthew 6:16 , where Jesus is teaching His disciples basic principles of godly living. When speaking on fasting, He begins with, “ When you fast,” not “ If you fast.” Jesus’ words imply that fasting will be a regular practice in His followers’ lives. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, in his book The Cost of Discipleship , said, “Jesus takes it for granted that His disciples will observe the pious custom of fasting. Strict exercise of self-control is an essential feature of the Christian life. Such customs have only one purpose — to make the disciples more ready and cheerful to accomplish those things which God would have done.” Fasting prepares you for the works God has ordained fo r you to do. Wesley Duewel, a twentieth-century writ...